David Dimbleby, host of political panel show Question Time for 25 years, has revealed he will be quitting the show

It is thought David, who is the longest-serving host of the show having filled the role since 1994, will remain the anchor for the Beeb’s general election coverage having covered every single one since 1979.

And last night a bun-fight over who would replace him had already begun, with a female host said to be prefered.

Those in the frame include Desert Island Discs’ Kirsty Young, 49, BBC2 presenter Victoria Derbyshire, also 49, and University Challenge’s Jeremy Paxman, 68.

It is understood that Dimbleby will remain as news anchor for the BBC for general elections

A TV source said: “It’s wide open right now. BBC bosses have until the end of the year to decide, but the initial thought is that it should be a female host for the first time. The Beeb is certainly not short of options on that front with more strong women contenders than male.”

Last night David said he was turning to his “first love” of reporting once he leaves the show.

He said: “At the end of the year I will have been chairing Question Time for a quarter of a century and I have decided that this is the right moment to leave.

"It has been a privilege to work for a programme which brings voters face to face with those in power. I am grateful to the production teams and to the BBC who have made this possible.